So far, I think this might actually be the Worst Fund Drive Ever.

[Skinner]

Even before this fund drive started, we knew there was a good chance that it would be our worst ever. This presidential primary is among the longest ever, and it's certainly the most divisive in recent memory. Sure enough, we were right. As I write this, the number of donations we have received appears to be the lowest since February 2004, in the heat of the last presidential primary. Of course, that primary was over by early March, so only one fund drive was affected by it. This year, there's a chance that this primary might even last through our third quarter fund drive in August.

So, rather than wallow in self-pity, the three DU Admins decided, What the heck, if this is going to be our worst fund drive ever, we might as well enjoy it! And so, the theme of Worst Fund Drive Ever was born. Don't like DU? We'll even let you punch the Admins! (Virtually.) As a fund-raising scheme, this approach does not seem to be particularly successful. But as an face-saving scheme, it is turning out to be a huge success. When the fund drive fails to reach its goal, or when we limp across the finish line at 11:55PM Sunday night, we can nurse our bruised egos by telling ourselves that we knew all along that we wouldn't make it. If we're feeling particularly delusional, we can tell ourselves that the fund drive failed because we are beloved so by our members that nobody wanted to donate and punch us in our virtual faces.

Interestingly, this time we're getting a lot fewer emails than usual from people telling us they refuse to donate this fund drive because we're doing such a crappy job. I think some disgruntled members might be a little bit confused about how to react to the the fund drive: Do I donate so I can punch the Admins in the face? Or do I not donate so they won't get my money? Similarly, we're receiving more emails than usual from people who want to donate, but are reluctant to do so because they don't want to punch us in the face.

Here, let me help.

For those of you who are angry at the Admins and want to punish us, read this: You should donate to DU, because then you get to punch the admins in the face. We will be deeply humiliated by this public face-punching, and we will be very sad if this fund drive reaches its goal of 1000 donations.

For those of you who are not angry at the Admins, but are reluctant to donate because you don't want to punch us, read this: The "punch the DU Admins" promotion is just a little bit of self-deprecating humor, and should not be considered to be equivalent to really punching the Administrators of Democratic Underground. We won't feel bad if you donate, and we don't really think you want to punch us in the face. In fact, we would greatly appreciate it if you did donate.

If you still can't bring yourself to donate, cut out this image and tape it to the top of your computer monitor, where the DU Administrators' faces appear:



See how much better that looks?

But all kidding aside... As you know, Democratic Underground is a completely independent website, and we depend on voluntary donations from our members to help cover our costs. We know this Democratic primary season has been long and difficult here on DU. But still we need your help. Please take a moment to donate right now:

http://www.democraticunderground.com/donate.html

Thank you for your support.

David Allen ("Skinner")
Democratic Underground Administrator

[tblue]

1. I gave!

[roguevalley]

161. I'm on a donation to a credit card monthly thing, skinner. how do I tell

short of digging out my receipts that it is still going? I want it to continue. I love this place.

[AtomicKitten]

2. I will gladly donate and appreciate the cyberspace bathroom wall to write on.

[Catherine Vincent]

3. How about "Punch the Dickheads and Trolls of DU"?

:evilgrin:

[jesus_of_suburbia]

39. I really think I could donate earlier to that cause!

[awoke_in_2003]

317. If they had that

I would go give plasma to finance that.

[leftrightwingnut]

325. Good one! Here's my list:

http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=view_all&address=132x5936281#5945421

[BOSSHOG]

4. HI SKINNER - I won't punch ya but keep your eye on the snail mail

Love you guys. Always faithful - BOSSHOG!!

[fishnfla]

5. Its the economy too

*sigh*

open up the sports forum for betting and take 10% of the cut

[Jersey Devil]

6. Not angry boss, just broke

A lot of us have been donating pretty heavily during the primaries.

But I'll tell ya what. I am going to Vegas tomorrow and I'll put something on the black at the roulette table and if I win I'll donate it when I get back. If not I might have to sell my Yogi Berra Day pin and you wouldn't ask me to do that, would ya?

[Waya]

7. Has nothing to do with the job........

.....you guys are all doing or not doing - it simply is impossible. I got a tight budget - we took in my boyfriends grandson - lots of problems the child has - so there is nothing left. Sorry.

[tblue37]

231. You have a star now. When you are more flush someday, pay it forward. n/t

[Cant trust em]

8. Tough to raise funds right now

Two hot political campaigns are asking. Myanmar has a cyclone and now there's an earthquake in China. I'll donate $10 to DU.

[jesus_of_suburbia]

9. You might want to think about members who say people in WV

are poor, white, racist, and uneducated.

[jesus_of_suburbia]

18. I promise I will donate $20 before November... but it's just hard to right now as a former Hillary

supporter.


I just have to wait till the mean threads end.


I'll give at least 20 dollars.

[emilyg]

53. That's how I feel.

Gave in another member's name. Can't bring myself to donate in my name.

[Binka]

59. As An Olive Branch From An Obama Supporter Can I Donate For You?

Let me know if you will accept my gift. Thanks.

[jesus_of_suburbia]

63. Thank you, Binka, send it to our nominee, Obama. I appreciate it though.

I will probably go ahead and donate anyway.

*hugs you for the gesture*

[Spazito]

180. No problem, I will kick in some extra bucks to cover for this fundraiser

for you, it's my pleasure. If you do decide to kick in this time, it will just give DU a bit more and every bit helps.

[jesus_of_suburbia]

56. By the way, can I use my bf's Paypal account to donate?

[PassingFair]

10. Put Hillary's face up there...

only half-joking....

:sarcasm:

[emilyg]

55. Put your face there.

[Forkboy]

58. LOL

:)

[Phillycat]

66. So Hillary should get punched in the face for running against the Chosen One?

God, you people are sickening.

[Hoof Hearted]

111. Yes, I wonder why donations are down. IT'S A MYSTERY!

[rodeodance]

121. and they call themselves the 'educated' class--yet they can not figure out the mystery!!

[kerry-is-my-prez]

277. lol! no kidding.... Maybe they should get the Obama campaign to donate.

Since this is basically Obama Underground.

[Rene]

300. Absolutely agree with you. I don't care if this site sinks.

bho supporters have trashed this site....and any Hillary supporters who are NOT enamored of the chosen one===the wrong candidate for President. Goodbye. Someone mentioned bathroom wall earlier---exactly right. Impossible to have honest discourse here without receiving foul mouthed attacks.

[Divine Discontent]

403. if you don't care if the site sinks, or more so, based on your tone - you want it too

then why post on it? logical question.

[awoke_in_2003]

318. This is not just asked of you

but to those above you, also- do (name your candidate) supporters have to turn every thread into a pissing match?

[Divine Discontent]

304. "God, you people are sickening"

maybe you wanna send us to the gas chambers, eh? As you clearly have begun to hate us!

I say that because one IDIOT says put Hillary's face up there to 'punch' at to generate donations and you go jump on the couch and throw us all into the same lot with 'punch Hillary in the face'-stooge and say we're all sickening - I didn't see any hooting and hollering it was funny.

People often group an entire race, religion, gender, etc into one group they can slander - and in your case - you appear to hate either Obama, or some of his supporters so much that you throw us into one lot and call us sickening.

Next time, just tell the person THEY'RE a jerk, mmm..kay?

[Phillycat]

327. Uhh....

I say that because one IDIOT says put Hillary's face up there to 'punch' at to generate donations and you go jump on the couch and throw us all into the same lot with 'punch Hillary in the face'-stooge and say we're all sickening - I didn't see any hooting and hollering it was funny.

Perhaps look at all the comments agreeing with that post. Yeah, there WAS "hooting and hollering it was funny"...or more accurately, agreement they'd like to punch Hillary in the face, in all seriousness. So, you know...the shoe seems to fit.

http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=show_mesg&forum=132&topic_id=5936281&mesg_id=5938753

[Divine Discontent]

404. extreme distortion on your part

2 people said that from what I just saw, and the second didn't even respond to the first. you make it sound like there's all kind of people agreeing with that bullshit - and there's over 300 posts in this and a lot more views.


quit the poor victim crying, k? I'm so SICK OF YOU ALL! :sarcasm:

seriously, have a good day!

[flyarm]

334. how many times do you think we have said that???????or need to?

i say..get the money from those who have sent us to other web sites..i only come here to check on Pm's usually for months now..i have been called every name in the book and i am not for either candidate..but now have leaned hillary because of the oababrats behavior..so want money get it from them!!
I am outta here!..i get the creeps being here anymore!

[carolinayellowdog]

339. "You people" is ALWAYS a signal for stereotyping

and when followed by blame and accusation (which it always is) leads to scapegoating. What I've learned most in the last six months is that SOME Clinton supporters ON DU hate ALL Obama supporters in the whole country.

[ExPatLeftist]

312. "You people"???

As far as I could tell, ONE person made that post.

Please stop painting with such a broad brush. I am responsible for MY words, not the words of everyone that happens to support the same candidate as I do, wears the same type of shoes that I do, or has the same color of eyes.


People really need to get a grip on the generalizations. That over simplistic "black-and-white" reality stuff is for idiots, and is therefore more suited to the GOP...

[Phillycat]

328. So, the four people who agreed with the comment...

in addition to the original commenter, which makes five, and the several people below who also suggested putting Hillary or the Clintons up there...which is a total of like eleven...doesn't count as "you people"?

It may be time to admit to yourself that the majority of Obama supporters are nasty bullying assholes.

http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=show_mesg&forum=132&topic_id=5936281&mesg_id=5938753

[ExPatLeftist]

343. Majority?

"a total of like eleven" = "Majority"??? How many people have posted in this thread? More or less than 21? And even if it were the majority of posts in this thread, what about Obama supporters that did not post on this thread? Or even *gasp* do not post on DU at all?

I knew that logic was not your strong suit, seems that math is not either.

You show me ANY study that points to a "majority of Obama supporters" being "nasty bullying assholes" and I will read it.

Until then, it seems obvious to me is that we have a handful of assholes on both sides making a lot of noise, and people in both camps are reading their posts as indicative of the majority. It's just plain illogical and ridiculous.

Generalizations are something that the Democratic party has always fought against. Try replacing "Obama supporters" in your posts with the naming of any other group... See the slippery slope? While generalization may make things simpler for you, the FACT is that we are all individuals and should be judged by our own actions, not those of others that coincidentally share a single trait.

[redqueen]

391. Oh so very very very well said! (nt)

[Phillycat]

394. Oh, yes, bravo!

A wonderful defense of the sort of people who want to punch women in the face! Well played, good chap! *waves monocle*

[ExPatLeftist]

418. WTF

You have never met me.

You do not know me from Adam.

You do not know what I have been active in for the US throughout my life.

You do not know my family or friends.

In fact, you know basically one thing about me: That I support Barack Obama as the Democratic nominee.


And from that, you surmise that I am "the sort of people who want to punch women in the face".

I will leave it at that and let the readers of DU decide who is being more abrasive, reactionary and rude.

[Phillycat]

419. And yet you keep replying to me.

:rofl:

[Phillycat]

393. A study?

:rofl:

Obama supporters are mostly assholes. There - I said it again! They really are! Abusive, mean-spirited, immature assholes. And as much as I dislike their Messiah, I dislike them even more.

And before you start spouting even more bullshit, yes, I will vote for him. So stuff it.

[ExPatLeftist]

413. "Abusive, mean-spirited, immature..."

Amazing that you can write THAT post and not see the irony in complaining about those particular traits in others...

I especially liked the inclusion of "immature" followed by this: "And before you start spouting even more bullshit, yes, I will vote for him. So stuff it."

Hilarious.


There are people like "that" on all sides. I am not one of them. You seem to be quick to start with the name-calling and snarkiness - maybe you are what you claim to hate? Look in a mirror lately?

Your premise is untrue and backed by nothing. Say it until you are blue in the face - doesn't make it true.

[Phillycat]

415. And yet you keep replying to me.

:D

[ExPatLeftist]

421. Yes. I have a decent tolerance for illogic and ignorance.

People can always learn.

[Phillycat]

422. Can they?

Then try learning this. I'll keep it in small words for you:

I have been treated like a piece of shit on this website for months by dozens and dozens, if not hundreds of Obama supporters because I support Hillary Clinton. I have been called a Nazi, a bitch, a loon, a loser, white trash, and my personal favorite, a racist. If I've started to paint with a rather broader brush than you would prefer, and if I've started to get a little cranky about it and stopped being unfailingly polite, YOU ARE JUST GOING TO HAVE TO SUCK IT UP AND DEAL.

Thank you.

[rodeodance]

82. even half-joking is not funny.

[Cha]

125. :)

Hi Passing Fair~ :)

[undeterred]

218. I knew somebody had to have suggested this

way before me. :hi:

[TheDonkey]

243. I'd donate in a NY minute if that were the case

x2 as much. I appreciate the admin's marketing tactic with this fundraiser but I have been disappointed with how things have been run allowing Hillbots to roam and disrupt.

[raebrek]

313. It didn't take that long

It didn't take that long for the donation post to get ugly.

Raebrek!!!

[graywarrior]

11. You should auction off a date with each of you.

Hell, GopSux would be first in line.

[ayeshahaqqiqa]

12. Ok, ok

I donated, but only because I knew it would make you feel better. But in NO WAY would I EVER want to hit ANY of you in the face! Thanks for the visual to "stick over" your portraits. But next time, seriously consider allowing us to send each other virtual roses!

[myrna minx]

13. I can donate something on Friday.

:kick:

[redqueen]

14. Just so long as you know that we'd rather not punch y'all in the face.

:P

[thewiseguy]

15. Sorry Mama but I gave all my money to Obama!

:evilgrin:

That was a joke please dont TS me. :hide:

[SoonerPride]

16. I donated already.

Now, please identify who is who in that picture so I know who I am hitting.

Thanks!

:)

[Skinner]

23. Here's the original:

[SoonerPride]

24. If I donate more will Elad be able to afford a t-shirt without holes?

:)

[EFerrari]

44. I want that shirt. Maybe Elad can raffle it off.

:)

[Cha]

128. Isn't Elad the one who has to keep this place up and

running and always getting improvements? He looks like he gets worked:)

[satireV]

136. It all makes sense now. (eof)

[LiberalFighter]

249. Now that I see you are wearing a UAW shirt I will donate now.

[Lasher]

309. Is that a hat EarlG is wearing?

Nice touch, dressing in rags. :cry:

I'll send money later today after I vote.

[Tarheel_Dem]

367. Hey Skinner! Hey Elad! Hey EarlG! We got you covered guys.....

Thanks for everything you do. :hi:

[La Lioness Priyanka]

17. also its not your fault this primary season is contentious!

i think you guys have been awesome

[hisownpetard]

70. I'll second that!

[eowyn_of_rohan]

19. There are others here I would WAY more like to punch

maybe you could set up customized punch recipient images? OR maybe we could gain points like last time, but instead of giving hearts to other users, we could give little dog piles? :7

[Tierra_y_Libertad]

20. Rest easy. My credit card got stolen and I 'm waiiting for a replacement.

And, seeing as how Hillary will, thankfully, not be the nominee, I won't have to depart until November.

[maddezmom]

21. Done

Now can I get some Swedish Fish? :D

[Skinner]

25. Of course:

[maddezmom]

32. Yummy

and low cal, too! :D

[corkhead]

22. I'm glad you mentioned the pics, I don't want to punch, I really appreciate you guys.

you shamed me into another donation:)

[L0oniX]

26. I'll donate but going to want 2 stars by my nickname.

[terrya]

27. I've donated twice

I could probably do one more small donation.

If that helps.

[kristopher]

28. Upgrade the bumpersticker

EarlG came up with a terrific theme - the Republican elephant with "From New Orleans to Iraq, From Main Street to Wall Street - The Party of Operation Chaos".

I'd have doubled my meager contribution for 2 of those...

[Lucky 13]

29. I gave - and for the first time! (with this screen name)

And I don't even want to punch you in the face!

Sorry I couldn't give more, but you know how it goes.

Have you ever thought of restricting access further to those that are not donors?

Best of luck.

[shaniqua6392]

215. Did you just suggest "restricting access further to those that are not donors?"

How Democratic of you. Maybe we should just ban all Clinton supporters too. That would make so many people happy. Wow. Sorry for the rant, but that was just shocking to me. I don't know what the hell is happening here at DU. Things sure have changed since I first joined. The last six months have been absolutely eye opening and disappointing.

[Lucky 13]

225. "I'm sorry you took offense at my post. I mis-stated"....

... is what a slimy politician would say.

I say I'm a dumbass who can't speak/type properly. Please allow me to explain.
:dunce:

I don't mean restricting access. But maybe like they can't use MyDU where you can quickly find your own posts. Or you can't use smilies or something. I didn't mean can't post, respond, contribute, etc. Just maybe not as fancy.

Um as I said, I had JUST given... so I've been livin' on easy street here and enjoying it. One of the things that convinced me to cough up the money and join was that I couldn't have a buddy list as a non-member. I like being able to keep track of my peeps, you know? Plus I saw there was a fundraising drive, and I just got paid, so timing was right...

anyway...

sorry...

<Backing out of room slowly...>
:banghead:

[shaniqua6392]

235. Thanks for the clarification.

You are a class act and I appreciate it. :hi:

[sui generis]

388. do you mean current donors or donors ever?

do you mean donors under a certain dollar amount? do you mean number of times per year?

I'm so confused. Maybe we should deny club memberships to people who aren't clear.

I stopped donating because Skinner punched me in the face and we haven't kissed and made up, at least not yet.

And I didn't even get to pay my bills with MY black eye. Whatever. He's a nice guy to other people when we're not both having our man-periods. I might donate to the other two, earlg and whatsisname. :evilgrin:

just kidding skinner. I still don't love you not no more than the last time I said I couldn't like you less, but I suppose I'll give some duckettes anyway, just as soon as I figure out what the hell I just said.

[dixiegrrrrl]

396. hmmmm...ya know, that sounds just a tad bit

ELITIST.......

:rofl:

Bit ironic, don'tcha think?

[jus_the_facts]

30. "to help cover our costs"

...does that mean it will finance you all going back to the dem convention again this go 'round?!

I wrote to you asking about the Valentine fundraiser and never got an answer back...just wondered why after 3 people donated in my name...I got hearts but not a donation star...wtf?

[EFerrari]

57. During that fundraiser, the donor had to specify that you get the star.

I had trouble with that myself when I donated for other people.

[jus_the_facts]

65. Thank You....

...that answers that question! :hi:

[Bucky]

31. Okay, I'll donate. But as a protest I'm donating in Euros.

Thus every minute I delay, the amount of my donation inches up a few more pennies.

[Catherina]

33. Most of our free money is going directly to Obama

:evilgrin: Thanks for this reminder. We'll take care of you too. What's the average you need to raise each quarter?

[durrrty libby]

34. "You should donate to DU, because then you get to punch the admins in the face. "

pitifully lame is an understatement :eyes:

[redqueen]

41. Still enjoying your stay, I see. (nt)

[rodeodance]

156. what a snobby response.

[Spazito]

181. No problem, I will kick in some extra bucks to cover for this fundraiser

just in case you choose to do otherwise.

Edited to correct sentence structure.

[Meshuga]

35. Please DO NOT send me a bumper sticker!

I always opt out of the bumper sticker but receive them anyway in the mail. My wife will kick my ass if she finds out that I donated to anything other than charity so please do not get me in trouble with the bumper sticker showing up in my mailbox! :-)

[Coexist]

36. I'll donate, of course, but

can we please have a special Primary Edition Grovelbot?

[NMDemDist2]

37. I love you guys, I may kick in a couple bux over and above my monthly donation

:loveya:

[Catherina]

38. Can we get DU + candidate stickers?

Those would probably be a big hit and rake in some more money for you.

If you use a printer that only prints the quantity ordered, you won't get stuck with a bunch of worthless stickers.

DU Candidate '08 stickers could be a collectors' item in 20 years because of the trail you guys blazed with this website.

[1776Forever]

72. OOOOOH I like that idea!!!!

:toast:

[benddem]

40. I was always a donor

till you switched to Paypal. I can't remember my password...I'm very busy when they send me the link to get a new password...I'm busy and don't respond immediately, then the link expires. I don't like paypal anyway!!!!

[maddezmom]

93. you can bypass paypal

I don't like it either so that's what I do. :hi:

[EFerrari]

42. LOL! Thanks, Skinner.

There's another thing -- a lot of us are more broke right now than some months ago. I have to wait to donate, for example, because things are more sketchy than they've been in some time.

[freefall]

306. Me too.

As someone who has been unemployed except for temporary jobs for over two years, I have to budget every penny in order to get bills paid before they incur late fees. I also have to send in a check as I've charged the limit on my credit card buying gas. I consider myself fortunate that I am still in my own apartment and not hungry. My check will be in the mail on Thursday. I hope it will count toward this fund raiser and I wish it could be larger.

I truly appreciate this site although I too have been disappointed by some of he vitriol lately and by the obsessive attention to the primaries when other issues of equal importance go unnoticed or receive very little attention.

Peace,

freefall

[EFerrari]

398. That's been me, too. It gets scary around here sometimes.

Our fundraiser will be fine but if it's a little slow, it's probably that the cash flow a lot of our wallets is a little slow, too.

(And, the nasty season is almost over. :hi: )

[rodeodance]

43. How about you kick all the O. folks off DU who have called Hillary or her supporters Racists?

The fund raising might go better for you.

[K Gardner]

45. Good idea ! I bet the $ he'd get from the 10 of you that are left would put him over the top !!

[rodeodance]

49. I have seen your posts. You would be one of those included.

[MediaBabe]

148. 10 of us remain? Well that's the point, isn't it?

If DU hadn't allowed this place to become Obama only the many Hillary supporters would still be here to donate, wouldn't they? So what did the smear Hillary campaign really accomplish? Do tell me. I'm curious.

What was accomplished by making this place so unpleasant for half the members that they left and now the bills can't be paid?

[Rene]

301. Very well stated.....That's exactly what's happened.

The Clinton supporters, who'd normally contribute, have disassociated from this site because of the pervasive nasty attitudes here from bho minions.

[lumberjack_jeff]

177. Only 10 left? Then your work is 99% done! n/t

[Skinner]

46. And then I can kick off all the people who called Obama supporters sexists.

And then I'll have approximately 10 members left.

But I'm sure we'll have fun talking amongst ourselves.

[rodeodance]

52. Sexism is accepted on this board.

[JuniperLea]

67. Seems to be...

Not to mention the bigotry over people in WV being so dumb... we seem soooo progressive... :eyes:

[rodeodance]

75. I just

saw the thread about WV and the calling people there uneducated, racists. ect ect. DU is becoming the laughing stock of the discussion boards on the net.

[Catherina]

79. And yet, DU posters were not being laughed at by the nation on SNL Saturday night

Go figure :shrug:

[rodeodance]

96. I thought you were smart enough to know the difference between a skit & a discussion board! "Go

Figure!!"

[JuniperLea]

98. Riiiiight... as goes SNL, so goes the nation...

Jesus Christ on a cracker!

We have become 'Idiocracy' ... life imitates even idiotic art I guess.


:puke:

[MethuenProgressive]

430. I thought mocking the way HillHaters saw the world was biting satire.

Funny stuff!

[JuniperLea]

81. We're making Freeperville look intelligent

And THAT is a daunting task... but whoo hoo! We did it. Jeez.

[rodeodance]

84. So many of Obama fans us Freeper/RW smears against Hillary that it is hard to tell them apart.

[LowerManhattanite]

392. This from “rodeodrudge”. Good God! n/t

[Straight Shooter]

95. Ugh, I hate to admit it, but you're correct about that.

Well, maybe not intelligent, but more civilized acting. I've been checking them out every couple of days to try to gauge their take on the primaries. It's so calm in there, it's unreal. Just the usual anti-Hillary or anti-Barack jokes, but nothing, absolutely nothing compared to the level of viciousness on DU. *sigh*

[Maddy McCall]

152. LOL.

You kill me.

:rofl:

:thumbsup:

[durrrty libby]

73. "Sexism is accepted on this board" Of course it is. That fact can

never be disputed

[JuniperLea]

83. It's far more insidious than racism

The only thing close in it's stealth is classism... as witnessed by the WV threads... poor dumb fucks... :eyes:

[durrrty libby]

107. Very true and it's a real eye opener as to what so-called

democrats are actually made of (not much)

[sniffa]

200. Feel free to leave

:hi:

[rodeodance]

224. Quitters never win...

[sniffa]

230. Neither does Hillary

:hi:

[DemBones DemBones]

424. She's won her Senate seat twice, against actual opposition, unlike Obama

who ran against Alan Keyes, who was brought in from MD after TWO Illinois candidates who were going to run against BO had their divorce records made public in some mysterious way, causing both of them to drop out. Keyes virtually handed him the election because he's very conservative; I doubt he took his campaign seriously at all. He was just a name on the ticket so Obama could say he beat an opponent.

Obama "won" his first election by getting all four of his opponents, including the popular Dem incumbent, disqualified on technicalities, so he just walked into the office, being the one person on the ballot. Oh, it was legal, but if you
sniff it, it reeks. Not ethical or democratic.

When he had a real opponent in an earlier race for the U.S. House, he lost. That should tell you something about what will happen in November if the convention is foolish enough to put him on the Democratic ticket.

Then Rev. Wright and his ilk will be delighted, claiming it was racism that did him in, and no black candidate will have a chance for years, which is what really bothers me about this rookie jumping into the race. He should have waited, gained some experience, and distanced himself from Wright, Ayers, Rezko, Meeks, etc.

The problem with Obama is not that his father was a black man but that he, Barack Obama, Jr.,lacks experience and has more baggage than Samsonite.

[durrrty libby]

275. I don't take advice from the purple joy stick clowns

:dunce:

[Kittycat]

109. So is racism.

Or at least the racist rantings of our one Resident Racist. But I digress...

[Tarheel_Dem]

371. I can't figure out why you stay? You constantly bitch and moan about this

board, but yet you stay? If I were as offended as you claim to be, I would go away, and never return. I think you enjoy playing the "victim", "martyr", "whatever"...etc. There are sites that I don't visit because they are offensive to me, but I don't advocate that the regulars withold their support.

You really need to get over yourself.

[TZ]

91. .....

:rofl:
Too bad more people in GDP don't share your sense of humor, it would make this forum so much nicer....:patriot:

[rodeodance]

101. It would never happen---as he said --there might be 10 folks left.

[Jamastiene]

143. That's been my beef too.

I know good and well that I am NOT a racist, yet every time I turn around someone is calling me a racist. And it's always my reply to them gets deleted, not their nasty OPs. Let me punch THEM, then I'll strongly consider donating.

[Dinger]

171. Here Here

:patriot:

[ExPatLeftist]

319. This is a problem we see on all sides

and it has the same root: The inability of people to discern between INDIVIDUALS and groups.

So many here are quick to lump all supporters of a particular candidate together and then attack all the supporters as if they were a hive mind.

If a poster posts something that we do not like, we need to quickly and unequivocally denounce that poster for that post. The reality is that so many people here take such idiotic posts as a statement from all supporters of that candidate and illogically use that against the entire campaign, or worse yet, punish the candidate and all of his/her supporters by bashing them all, refusing to support the candidate in the GE, etc. All because of the words of a few idiots that happen to have chosen a candidate to support.


This is a patently immature and illogical attitude that is at the root of a lot of problems here lately.

We can end it by reminding ourselves that each poster speaks for only him- or herself. And reminding others when they start to go down that simplistic path with comments like "That just shows how the supporters of "x" are" or "you people are...."

[LowerManhattanite]

390. Lighten up, rodeodrudge—geez! n/t

[Egnever]

47. Admitedly I didnt want to punch you in the face

I did last time arround though :P

Just waiting for pay day.

[progressoid]

48. The admins I wanna punch are a lot older and reside primarily in DC and Texas

But I'll donate later in the week anyway. :)

[Spazito]

50. I don't want to punch you guys but I LOVE DU and we all need

it to be up and running for the General Election so I will be donating in the next day or two. You guys AND the moderators do an awesome job both keeping this site up and running efficiently AND being fair to both sides during this very fractious time.

[shenmue]

51. No, and never again. You abdicated your responsibilities...

in the face of the most hateful behavior in the history of the site. No chance you're ever getting a dime from me again.

[rodeodance]

90. the

threads have been hateful

[last1standing]

117. Yet you're not too proud to use their own site to bash them.

I have my own problems with the DU admins but one thing I won't accuse them of is abdicating their responsibilities. They've done the best Damned job they know how to do and whether you, or I, agree with their decisions or not, we can at least give them the respect they deserve for setting this place up so that you can have a voice.

Talk about biting the hand that feeds you....

[durrrty libby]

142. Yet you are not too proud to kiss their ass. Talk about pandering

"we can at least give them the respect they deserve "

Many are doing exactly that.:evilgrin: It's a good thing:woohoo: :applause: :woohoo:

[Spazito]

184. No problem, I will kick in some extra bucks for you n/t

[MrRobotsHolyOrders]

211. You'll be the difference

There will be bitter (bitter!) tears when they find out that the lack of your contribution was what sank the site.

[LaurenG]

241. Wow!

Sometimes people say the most horrendous things and it upsets others including me but unlike you I don't hold the admins or mods here responsible just because I can't hold my own in a crowd.

It takes "testicular fortitude" to get up, wipe off the blood and keep going. Feel free to try and see if you can't let it all slide off your back, it's really not that hard.

[Maine-ah]

54. If I could, I would but this economy is reaking havok on my household

behind on everything from the mortgage to the electric bill. Not even 5 bucks to spare. Hopefully things will turn around soon.

[davsand]

60. I don't think anybody is terribly angry with you guys, plus we like to give.

Have you ever noticed how well DU responds to giving TO each other? The Valentine hearst are a great example of that. It becomes s sort of status thing to see how many hearts people can accumulate or give away. Maybe next time this could be a case of giving something to somebody.

I think you should incorporate some sort of graphic when somebody gives. Give anybody that donates a donkey kick graphic of their own or better yet--let them TELL you which admin they want to "get" and count them up. Turn it into a sort of contest of the admins for which one gets "kicked" most by the membership.




Hell--I'm still "mad" at Elad for not showing up at the DU gathering several years ago when I had it at my house here in Illinois.

I am mad because I haven't seen any pictures in a VERY long time of ANY of you guys. You could work down the hall from me and I'd never know it!

I am pissed because you have NEVER organized a NATIONAL DU gathering! (Ha! Top THAT one, everyone! I KNOW it isn't you admins' job, but it is kind of fun to think of a reason to give up my cash!)


I'm gonna go think of reasons to be "mad."

:evilgrin:



Laura

[JVS]

151. How about "primary season stab wounds of hate"?

You donate $5 and you can give a stab wound to whichever DUer you hate from this primary season. This will create a visual testimony to how hated they are.

[davsand]

159. Wow, the inverse of a "popularity contest!"

Might clean out some of the "ignore" lists on here, however.

I bet I could get more than a few stab wounds come to think of it...




Laura

[Hoof Hearted]

61. The treatment of Clinton supporters that is allowed here is unforgivable.

My family has four accounts here and they were all previously donating accounts. Some have donated more than others. Our wallets shall remain closed indefinitely while we continue to appraise the situation.

[NanBo]

74. okay I'll donate again to make up for this

Not sure why people hang around that don't approve...but anyway.

Great job you guys!

[Hoof Hearted]

106. You won't make up for it, but I'd rather you gave it to DU than Obama so go ahead

and try.

[rodeodance]

80. thanks for speaking up.

[Hoof Hearted]

110. Had to be said. Mine (HH) account is actually the newest of the four.

DH's business and home accounts have been here since '03, my business account since '04. We've donated hundreds and hundreds of dollars but no more. Feedback is important, and so it is important for me to communicate this to Mr. Allen.

[rodeodance]

124. yes, they should know why and hope they take this feedback seriously.

[juajen]

193. Thank you for speaking up. HIllary's treatment on here has demoralized

many of us, who have depended on DU for fairness, and who love this site very much. It would be very hard to leave here, it is so much a part of my life. DU won't miss my donations, because I am one of those old, poor ladies much demonized and tromped on by the hordes of Obama Taliban.

However, I am not sure how the admins could have stopped this, as the train left the station and was running away from them early on. Next time, the rules should be, no new posters until after the primaries. If this rule had been implemented early, much of this could have been avoided

Most DUers are respectful of other DUers, especially if there is a history. We were invaded by the Taliban and they are still here.

So, many of us avoid posting, even though we still come here to read. Many of us love and respect so many Obama supporters. It's the new riff-raff with no manners who bully instead of reason. This type of poster DU doesn't need.

I hope after they leave, this place will be sane again.

[MagickMuffin]

295. You expect respect from Obama supporters yet you refer to DUers as "the Taliban"

Not once but TWICE. You also insulted DUers by implying they are riff-raff.

Perhaps the HATE IS IN YOUR OWN HEART.

You know you have to earn respect to receive respect. Shame on you juajen, Shame on you.

[Divine Discontent]

305. right on MagickMuffin

I just questioned why someone in another post would say we're ALLLLLL "sickening" because ONE person said to put Hillary's face up there to punch.


They've begun to hate us... Much like how WV is going to go Hillary 70-30 or higher, there's large swathes of people that can build up hate so much that they truly despise people that even, in our case, share a common interest with them - because they aren't getting their way. They feel we're taking something from them and it's OUR fault. They aren't as bad as the Nazis, I am not implying that, but that's where hate leads is all I'm saying - some of these people need hosed with cold water and told no net time for a month...

[usrbs]

329. Couldn't any Obama supporters have said something?

Instead, there was a lone LOL. I certainly would have spoken up if I had seen a suggestion that Obama's face be put up. (And I'm not online 24/7 so don't bring me examples of hateful speech the other way around. Besdides, as has been noted, there are enough BO supporters so that those threads get locked or deleted immediately).

And "you" doesn't mean all of you unless it's preceded with "all of". It was in the plural because unfortunately there is a multiplicity of HRC haters here.

[JDPriestly]

297. I put the primaries on ignore long ago.

I did it after my candidate, Edwards, had to opt out. Just put the rude folks and the fanatics on ignore.

[awoke_in_2003]

323. I know it is hard

but don't take that stuff seriously. Most of the hateful stuff is coming from people who have been here a month or three, and have already racked up thousands of posts. They are mostly a bunch of blowhards, and will go away when this primary is over. I think most of them are here just to stir the shit up. Just so you know, I support Obama (ever since JE dropped out) and will vote for whomever is the Democratic candidate. Enjoy your day:hi:

[Adelante]

336. "The Taliban"

And you wonder why people might be mean to you :shrug:

[Jamastiene]

407. I agree about the n00b bullies.

Not all of the new ones, but a certain bunch of them have been atrocious. I wonder if they will ever go away. I'm not sure there is enough DEET in the world to get rid of some of them. They will be moles to the GOP in the fall too. They will cost us this election as well. Mark my words on that. Sleeping with the enemy never works out.

[Auntie Bush]

201. "The treatment of Clinton supporters that is allowed here is unforgivable."

and disgusting. 'Nough said!

I really don't like donating to an Obama campground. Seems like this is Obacratic Underground. I'll gladly donate when this place becomes Democratic Underground again and is no longer the favorite place to poop on my candidate.

All those Obama supporters are the ones with all the money and education... (I'm just a poor dumb white fuck, with an education)let them help keep this place afloat for themselves. If they can afford to send millions to Obama...then they can afford to help support their own personal website.
I've already given more than I can afford to Hillary and have none to spare right now for Obamatic Underground.

It's allowing all those Republican talking points right out FR regarding Monica etc. to remain...thus encouraging them or showing approval that I consider so egregious that I can't support DU...Sorry!

[Hoof Hearted]

262. Thank Auntie. I really respect you and your opinion, you're one of my faves.

[Auntie Bush]

409. Thanks Hoof, That works both ways.

:hug:

[jbm]

284. I feel the same way, plus....

in a few more weeks I'll either be tombstoned or leave, so there's not much point in it. I may come back in November, but I've found that if you stay away from a site for any length of time, you lose interest in it. I can't stand the way Hillary was treated, and I don't see much point in wasting time, energy and money on a candidate that doesn't have the numbers to get past the primary.

[siligut]

62. Thanks

Okay, I donated. Thanks for explaining why you would put your own faces at the end, that really had me bugged.

[Blue_In_AK]

64. Skinner, I'm waiting for my "stimulus,"

which I thought was going to come last week. I'm not sure what the hold-up is, but as soon as I see it in my account, I'll send you some.

Did I read here that people who are getting refunds are being stimulated on a different schedule than those of us who had to pay? My $2700 to the IRS cleared my credit union April 9, so it's not like they should be waiting to get my money before they send me some. :shrug:

[1776Forever]

78. Check this link out - should help you out.............

http://www.freep.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080317/COL07/80317039

[SurfingAtWork]

114. This one is good as well, and you can get a little more specific info

https://sa1.www4.irs.gov/irfof/IRServlet?app=IRACTC

[Blue_In_AK]

123. Thank you very much.

That did indeed help. It looks like we have to wait until 6/13. That really does suck. x(

[hfojvt]

68. I think you do better when there is an award like the hearts or stickies

If you got like a choice of a rose for every five dollars or a Mr. Yuck sticker. That way you could either give a thumbs up to your friends or a thumbs down to your enemies. Of course that could lead to an even more uncivil war, but I am sure some people would like a chance to express their displeasure. I know some people hate the popularity contests too and this idea might even be the worst of both worlds, roses or raspberries.

[OzarkDem]

69. I donated

Come on you Obama cheapskates, ante up!

[phrigndumass]

71. What is this "self-deprecating humor" you speak of?

I don't understand the concept.

DU Levels of Difficulty:
Easy - Showing your profile
Moderate - Starting your journal
Hard - Reaching 1000 posts
Extremely easy - Donating (they'll even give you a nifty !)

I'll help make it even easier, just click: http://www.democraticunderground.com/donate.html

Sometimes it takes a phrigndumass to point out a no-brainer. }(

[maddezmom]

88. LOL

:thumbsup:

[awoke_in_2003]

324. Like your screenname

of course, I had to say it out loud a couple times to get it :)

[Tyler Durden]

76. I will make you a deal:

And you don't even have to TS anybody or anything like that.

Tell the mods to be a little quicker on the draw. The average "Clinton sucks" or "I will never vote for Hillary and here's why" goes 150+ posts and 50 recs before someone FINALLY "Flamebait"'s it. The Average Obama thread of the same stripe gets about 20-25.

I don't care if you guys or the mods are Obama supporters or not. I'm only asking that MODS to their job IMPARTIALLY. If I could afford the time away from my job, I would HONESTLY apply for the job, and DEEP SIX every damned one of them before they went 10 posts.

Also, do something about the damned JOURNAL sideline. The rants there have gotten so bad that I could only view one or two of them for not being on IGNORE.

THAT is what has caused the most animosity here. Not the nature of the posts (there will always be assholes) but the fact that the Hillary busters go ON and ON and get enough recs to hit the damned front page.

Look RIGHT NOW and tell me that ANY Of those five are not nasty, opinionated flamebait.

I see a little more shootin' from the hip, pard, and DU goes back on monthly withdraw from the credit card. If not, well, we'll see.

[countingbluecars]

77. I am finding it difficult

to donate to this fund drive due to the current state of GD-P. Hopefully, you will be able to reign in some of the attack behavior after the primary. Being told/reading "fuck off" or "fuck you" because one supports a particular candidate is getting old. That being said, I do a lot of reading here, and my sense of responsibility will probably get the best of me and I will make a donation.

[JuniperLea]

85. I think you are correct

It's not one side against the other... it's the individual whiners who are posting crap that is of no use but to flame, in a stupid neener neener nah nah nah way.

[Flirtus]

86. done and done

Thanks for all you do. You get a part of my stimulus payment!

I have to admit I didn't even see the fund raising banner at first; I was too interested in reading stuff.

[Sam Ervin jret]

87. Maybe DUer's who have words to "repent for"and are frequent posters could donate their "faces" to

the cause too.

Some of you guys are popular (for good and for not so good) and why not use it?

Donate to be punched and to punch. All in good fun and for a good cause. Let off steam in the midst of a heated election season.

could it work, it's not my area of expertise but....?

[Zero Division]

89. Donated. Considering the circumstances, the DU Admins are doing...

the best job they can. I can only imagine what the behind-the-scenes whining from a small, but vocal minority of DUers must be like right now.

[rodeodance]

102. ah, just like Obama. The BIG TENT of the Democratic Party can do without certain groups--that is

"logic' also. No at all surprised his fans have taken on that attitude as well.

[Zero Division]

132. You make too many assumptions about the "vocal minority" to which I am....

referring. I am no "fan" of any politician, either, and find being described as such to be more than a little condescending.

[rodeodance]

141. Then i substract you from my post. Sorry to have included you.

[Zero Division]

146. Thank you for the civil response.

[Name removed]

155. Deleted sub-thread

Sub-thread removed by moderator. Click here to review the message board rules.

[BlooInBloo]

92. Phew - we set records all the time!

:rofl:

[K Gardner]

94. Very telling that only Hillary supporters are on record in this thread threatening to

withhold donations unless DU complies with their demands or threatening NEVER TO DONATE AGAIN !

Wonder where they got that from?

[Chovexani]

104. My only "demand"

Is that all Democrats be treated with respect regardless of which candidate we support. The last time I checked, this was still supposedly Democratic Underground, not Barack Obama Underground or Hillary Clinton Underground.

A small cadre of people, many of whom are not even long-term posters, are holding this board hostage and behaving like Stazis in the name of their candidate. The mods have done absolutely nothing to change this, and in some cases have merrily joined in. The bias is overwhelming, despite Skinner's disingenuous claims to neutrality. I have altered on hateful posts I've seen on both sides, and it's interesting that the anti-Obama ones are the only ones that ever get wiped from the board.

I will not be giving to DU again until this situation improves. I am not holding my breath waiting for that to happen.

[DemBones DemBones]

426. Amen. And I started reading DU at the start, though I didn't register

for a year or so because I was on Smirking Chimp back then.

This is the first time I've been here in some time and it'll be a good while before I'll be back. Nobody is discussing here, on a discussion board, and there is far too much insulting of Hillary Clinton and her supporters. Not legitimate criticism but vile insults. Who needs it? There are other forums where people know how to be civil.

Sexism has always been a problem at DU but this campaign has brought outright misogyny, some of it from posters I would not have expected it from. It's puerile and pathetic.

[Hoof Hearted]

113. Very telling that Obama supporters continue shitting on our heads and failing to understand that

this is not an effective tactic for gaining support.


I WONDER WHERE they get that from?

[rodeodance]

119. very telling that

you come back with a second demeanning post on this thread. Foolish. you never learn how to treat folks with respect.

[Beausoir]

129. The simple fact is that posters like you are the reason DU is having such trouble.

You might want to reflect on that for awhile.

If you think you are actually benefitting this community, you are very wrong.

You've only been here for a short time. You have spammed unmercilessly with your Hillary hate. And now you thread-crap on Skinner in order to blame long-time Clinton supporters and longtime DU members for the trouble this site is in.

You need to really think about that.

[JVS]

164. They're too busy donating to Hillary's campaign! Oh wait, if they were...

she wouldn't need to keep loaning herself money.

What the fuck? Where does all the pro-hillary money go?

[greguganus]

179. Into Penn's pocket. n/t

[JVS]

199. I'm beginning to wonder if it isn't going to John McCain with the poor loser attitude I see here...

so frequently.

[rodeodance]

190. It is so like obama supporters to engage in bully redicule behavior!! Your post is proof

of the type of behavior we want addressed to Skinner in our feedback.

[JVS]

238. That doesn't answer the question of where all the money is going.

[rodeodance]

349. If your question relates to Skinners fund drive money. then appropriate. Otherwise it is not.

[JVS]

353. Hillary claims to have the support of half the democratic party, where's the money to prove it?

[rodeodance]

357. Stop being RUDE. and stick to the OP topic.

[JVS]

361. You know what's rude? It's rude to gripe at the adminstrator of a site and accuse him of allowing..

it to be a cesspool. If you think it's a cesspool then maybe you shouldn't frequent the site.

[rodeodance]

369. Feedback is being allowed.

[JVS]

370. But it's still rude.

[rodeodance]

384. I do not think so. We will disagree on this issue

[JVS]

414. If you can't see how calling this website a cesspool is rude to Skinner, then you're very...

insensitive, except when it comes to taking offense at what others have said and pissing and moaning about it.

[Tarheel_Dem]

366. It seems that DU isn't the only place they haven't been donating to....

if you catch my drift. What...they are pouting because they see something that offends their delicate sensibilities? My governor said that Hillary's no "pansy", so I suggest her supporters here take a lesson from her. I have committed to making 3 donations to DU, as I feel DU needs it more than Obama right now. I've made 1, with 2 to go. Hopefully, those of us that appreciate the hard work, and the terrific service this site provides, will come through for David.

[raccoon]

97. Don't worry, Skinner,

Don't worry, Skinner,

Everything will turn out all right...

[nomorewhopper]

100. too bad its not a "PUNCH HILLARY CLINTON" fund raiser. you'd break all kinds of records

sad but true

[rodeodance]

108. yes, sad , but true

[raccoon]

115. I don't get it. nt

[nomorewhopper]

130. um, because a lot of people

ya know, don't like hillary clinton on this board....

get it?

[Jamastiene]

166. While we are being honest here...

I would say "don't like" is far far far too mild to describe the venomous vitriolic hatred toward Hillary Clinton on here.

[raccoon]

326. Yeah, a lot of people don't, but I was just paraphrasing Brian Wilson

("Don't Worry, Baby"). :shrug:

[greguganus]

183. Put Bill and Hillary's pics up and I'll donate often.

and Chelsea.

[mtnester]

187. Can we out your face up there?

and your mother's? How about your kids (if you have them)....want to send in some pics and have us use them as a punching bag? Your spouse's/partner's face too please if applicable...send 'em over. Oh wait, maybe pics of your grandma?


sheesh...common sense has left the building.

[ElsewheresDaughter]

99. the economy sucks skinner...lets hope the top economists are wrong about what's coming

[madwivoter]

103. Aw, I just missed the fund drive

I donated last week...

Good Luck!

[DemExpat]

105. Because I still read a lot on DU I'll donate again, Skinner,

but I admit it is hard to contribute to a site that I feel is at this time just as horrendously hateful as any in Freeperland.

DemEx

[Adelante]

112. I'm not mad at you

I'm just busted :cry:

[lojasmo]

116. I'll donate when Obama is the presumptive nominee

and all these dead enders are gone.

[Auntie Bush]

340. Well this long time dead ender dosn't plan on going away

At least not yet. Depends on how sickening this place gets.

[paulkienitz]

118. I'd kinda rather punch the two candidates

[last1standing]

120. It's not you it's priorities, Skinner.

Everyone is donating to their candidate of choice right now and that leaves little room for DU or even the DNC (which is where I send most of my money). It'll get better by next quarter, I'm sure. Hell! Even I started donating again so it has to get better soon.

[Cha]

122. Yeah, 'cause I don't

wanna punch you guys out. But, I was thinking about donating something, anyway, when I get home from woirk.

[Pale Blue Dot]

126. I'm not suprised, but not for the reasons you think.

It's the economy. I think that money is getting tighter and tighter. I'm not at all suprised to see you having more troubles raising funds. I think that donations of all types will take a steep decline.

[Bonobo]

127. You no longer speak to the website as you used to. Remember Ask the Admins?

I miss "Ask the Admins".

It kept the regular folks (us) and the management (you) on the same page and made me feel more like it was "our" website together.

I feel less that way now.

No flames intended. Just my feelings.

[NJSecularist]

131. You're never getting a dime from me until you clean this place up of the most vile Obama supporters.

For far too long this primary season, Obama supporters have had free reign here to do whatever they like without punishment. Meanwhile, great members like jackson_dem, who just happen to be Hillary supporters, get tombstoned for bringing articulate discussions to the table that get bogged down in accusations of race baiting by the loud majority of Obama supporters.

It is unforgivable what has gone on here; and it's clear due to your lackluster fundraising that you are taking a hit from it. Well, maybe this is a lesson to you. Maybe you will heed the advice and ban some of the most vile Obama supporters here and restore the credibility back into this message board. But until you to that, don't expect any donations from me or many others who feel the same way.

The most vile Hillary supporters get TSed, yet the most vile Obama supporters continue to have homes here.... see a pattern?

[Renew Deal]

137. You were pretending to be one of those Obama supporters up until a couple weeks ago.

So what you talking about? Jackson_Dem got canned? I was wondering why this place got more peaceful. I'm going to donate now that I know he's gone.

[countingbluecars]

138. Both sides have been given

free reign. IMO

[Renew Deal]

133. Can we punch Elad only? I'm sick of the bug reports.

:evilgrin:

[Kukesa]

134. OK, I can give my pittance, but Obama gets the good stuff. n/t

[Plaid Adder]

135. Lo, I have donated. I will now explain why.

I've been around through a number of primary cycles and seen a lot of the kind of crap going on in GD: P over the years. Never this much and never this bad. Still, overall I have always been very impressed with the way the admins and the moderators handle conflicts here, and I am convinced that we would be hard put to find any group of human beings who could deal with this unprecedented situation any better than they have.

If you think the mods are doing a crappy job, then the way to fix that is to volunteer to become a moderator during the next changing of the mod guard and show them how it's done. My guess is that after doing the job for a single day you'd have a quite different perspective on it.

This is a huge community and it will never be possible to make everyone get along. Under normal circumstances it is usually, but not always, possible to force most DU members to adhere to a basic standard of civility. These are not normal circumstances, and it does not surprise me that this primary season is a lot uglier on DU than the previous ones. It's uglier *everywhere.* If you can find a Democratic message board that's this big and this diverse that's doing a better job with making everyone treat each other well, then by all means go there and spend your money on it instead of on DU. You could probably find sites that are strictly pro-Obama or pro-Clinton that have more amity and unity among the ranks. I think it's unlikely you'll find one that is open to supporters of both candidates that doesn't have some kind of barroom brawl going on within.

I have yet to find anything out there that offers what DU offers, and I know that after the primary is over it's going to be better here. And because I don't want DU to disappear between now and when the primary is finally over because it couldn't make payroll, I'm donating now and not waiting until some future time when we finally have a nominee. I would encourage everyone else who wants the site to still be here when the madness has subsided to do the same.

C ya,

The Plaid Adder

[Hatchling]

139. I think it shows a clever sense of humor on your part.

All primary season you've heard things like this from us:

"They're being mean to us!" :cry:

"No! They're being mean to us!" :cry:

"Make them go to their room!" :grr:

"They won't stay our of our room!" :mad:

"Admins, they're doing it again! Make them stop!" :nuke:

"You love them best!" :tinfoilhat:

"No!, You love them best!" :tinfoilhat:

"You're Bad Admins and I won't donate to DU ever again if you don't do this!" :banghead:

"If you do this, you're Bad Admins and *I* won't ever donate to DU ever again!" :banghead:

I offer kudos to a beleaguered group of Admins and Mods who have done your best during this chaotic season and I acknowledge the gentle humor and laughter you offer with the opportunity to punch the "Bad Admins".
:rofl:
Good on ya, Guys and Gals!
:yourock:

[MediaBabe]

140. So many people begged you to stop the Hillary bashing so the issues

could predominate in the discussions.

Administration insisted that the bashing was even on both sides. It isn't and it never was. The vicious hatred allowed to be posted here against Hillary is not comparable to asking about Obama's qualifications.

Where are the issues? If anyone tries to post a candidate's views on issues in the less inflammatory General Discussions it gets moved to the rabid GD-P by Administration where it cannot survive.

Donate? To support this? I don't think so.

[Tarheel_Dem]

372. "Donate? To support this? I don't think so."

I think that it's despicable to say that you won't support a board where other people bear the financial responsibility? Your right to speak your mind on this board is paid for by others...you do know that, right?

You're fortunate that I'm not an Admin, or you would be banned for life, just for making that vile statement.

[boston bean]

144. You threw your lot in with the teenie boppers sitting in their moms basement who's

allowance can't cover a donation to DU. Or students sitting in their dorm rooms with no cash.

And you have allowed freeps and trolls to overtake the board in hopes of growing your viewership, they will be gone soon, and the people who have been part of this community who you allow to be beaten by a mob don't feel like donating right now.

There have been disgusting posts about Hillary that come directly from FR and they are allowed to make it to the greatest page, where as before those posts were not just locked but zapped. Now they can sit on the greatest for 24hours.

The mods (not all) are biased and you refused to get a handle on that.

I have had entire pieces of threads just disappear, not deleted sub threads, no deleted, hundreds of posts just gone, no explanation.

[rodeodance]

147. The fact that those VILE threads make to the Front page make DU look like a RW sewer to the world!!

[boston bean]

150. While posters who calls Hillary supporters "ignorant white f*cks"continues to have privileges

on DU.

[durrrty libby]

221. That nasty thing must write big checks. There is no other

explanation for its survival

[sniffa]

256. Then how much do you donate?

:shrug:

[Name removed]

276. Deleted message

Message removed by moderator. Click here to review the message board rules.

[durrrty libby]

402. No worries. They get what they deserve. Don't you agree?

:shrug:

[MrRobotsHolyOrders]

210. HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA

GODDAMN OBAMA SUPPORTING CHILDREN AND THEIR ROCK MUSIC!

But congratulations on equating 'beaten by a mob' with 'somebody was mean to me on the internet.' It really puts the Civil Rights Movement into prospective, no?

[Catherina]

267. Disappeared with no explanation? How horrible. I can't imagine why.

72% of US Military Casualties in Iraq have occurred on OBAMAS WATCH
Topic started by MassDemm on May-04-08 04:52 AM (297 replies)
Last modified by bigwillq on May-05-08 04:21 PM

Another HandShake Scandal!!!!
Topic started by MassDemm on May-04-08 08:11 AM (15 replies)
Last modified by tokenlib on May-04-08 09:04 AM

He did not buy my boobs and Umbama
Topic started by MassDemm on May-02-08 08:12 PM (3 replies)
Last modified by mcctatas on May-02-08 09:51 PM

Obama Tells Woman "I Don't Want You To Think I'm Getting Fresh"
Topic started by MassDemm on Apr-14-08 07:47 PM (86 replies)
Last modified by spooky3 on Apr-15-08 05:32 AM

THE HOPEMOBILE'S NEW ALTERNATIVE ENERGY SOURCE = BITTERNESS
Topic started by MassDemm on Apr-12-08 07:29 AM (28 replies)
Last modified by RogerClinton on Apr-12-08 10:00 AM

RANDI RHODES GO F*CK YOURSELF!
Topic started by MassDemm on Apr-02-08 04:02 PM (162 replies)
Last modified by susankh4 on Apr-03-08 04:20 AM

RISE HILLARY RISE
Topic started by MassDemm on Mar-24-08 07:51 PM (44 replies)
Last modified by DarienComp on Mar-25-08 08:35 AM

I wonder why OBAMA didn't go to celebrate Easter Services at his Church?
Topic started by MassDemm on Mar-24-08 07:12 AM (44 replies)
Last modified by rurallib on Mar-24-08 07:01 PM

Manifesto by Hamas printed in Wrights Church Letter, July 22nd 2007
Topic started by MassDemm on Mar-20-08 06:03 PM (35 replies)
Last modified by milkyway on Mar-20-08 07:59 PM

So O is gonna give his speech on RACE tomorrow huh?
Topic started by MassDemm on Mar-17-08 04:12 PM (127 replies)
Last modified by scheming daemons on Mar-18-08 05:32 PM

Who brings their little girls to church services where the minister is gyrating sexually on stage
Topic started by MassDemm on Mar-13-08 03:59 PM (27 replies)
Last modified by aasleka on Mar-13-08 04:16 PM

and my personal favorite

Obama, can you help your grammamma?
Topic started by MassDemm on Mar-09-08 04:01 PM (168 replies)
Last modified by Texasgal on Mar-09-08 07:18 PM


I shudder to think of what the mods zapped :scared:

[sniffa]

308. SNAP

[Tarheel_Dem]

375. Good job Catherina. Of course, you are now on the poster's Ignore

list because they hate it when they're forced to confront their own past sins. You won't get a reply, or even an acknowledgement. I've tried that before, to no avail. They revel in their "victimhood".

[JVS]

145. A suggestion. After the "gripe 'n gloat week" that happens once we have a presumptive...

nominee and spewing shit all him is forbidden. You could have a fundraiser that coincides with the banning of people who keep bashing him. Morale will be up and people will be happy to dig deeper, knowing that their donations are not being used to support a website that is being used as a platform to indirectly help McCain. The funds might be especially free flowing if the mods announce the bans and reasons for the people to celebrate.

[Phillycat]

149. Oh, because hatefulness is so inspiring.

What a terrible idea. I won't speak ill of Obama after he is the nominee and it's forbidden on DU, but dancing on good Democrats' graves when they're banned from DU would NOT inspire me to give money to this website. Neither does the current climate.

[JVS]

154. It seems to be inspiring a lot of Hillary supporters not to donate.

Let's make some lemonade out of those lemons.

[rodeodance]

157. We are not sheepie SWOONERS and can think as individual human beings.

[JVS]

160. Which is exactly why so many of you have told Skinner that he runs a bad site that isn't worthy of..

donations?

[rodeodance]

172. I hope he takes the time to seriously evaluate all the feedback.

[jillan]

196. Amen!

[JVS]

368. I'm sure he has better things to do that read all the whining in here.

[eowyn_of_rohan]

234. It's inspiring many who are simply not gaga for Obama not to donate

The hysteria and low-brow dialogue has become thoroughly repugnant. I am not enamored with either candidate. I believe they have been allowed to get to this place --the only 2 remaining, in a bitter, divisive battle-- by the corporate, GOP controlled media, for reasons that we can only imagine. Making lemonade out of this one is like putting lipstick on a pig.

[sniffa]

257. Good, don't donate

Do whatever the fuck you want to with your money.

:hi:

[eowyn_of_rohan]

291. See what I mean. everybody? Low Brow

[sniffa]

303. See what I mean? Don't donate

[juajen]

202. God, you are so brilliant, perhaps Skinner can make you an honorary

admin, and you'd get to ban everybody you don't like. Gee, think that'll be fun?

[cornermouse]

441. (Harry bellowing) Hey Louise. Go get the "Blame Hillary Excuse Book"

(Louise) Aw, shaddup.

[nadinbrzezinski]

153. It is the economy guys

truly

Not only the primary

I was getting close to my year ending and had to dig deep to get my donation up for the year

But it is also the economy

[walldude]

158. I agree... I have to wait till Friday before I can make

my regular donation. Getting squeezed out here. I guess all the Hillary supporters are happy with the economy because they seem to be claiming that it's only Obama supporters who aren't donating..

[nadinbrzezinski]

170. I would not go that far

but there are a few (bout twenty at most) who are tickled pink...or at least seem to be

[walldude]

173. You're right I'm sure.. it's a case of DUitis

was called a vile cheapskate who lives in my mom's basement my first 2 minutes here.. causes me to overreact. :toast:

[nadinbrzezinski]

175. I live in my mom's apartment

its the economy....

So I read that one going... whatever dudes... but it is flamebait

And it is coming from a deep place of at this point hate

[mmonk]

162. Lol

Great idea. Really puts the pressure on some. I'll donate soon.

[flpoljunkie]

163. My donation this quarter will be in direct proportion to the level of posts we are allowed on GD-P

[Liberty Belle]

165. I just donated; hope everyone else will kick in a few bucks to keep the doors here open!

[Danger Mouse]

167. This is a bad time for me to be coughin up the dough...

but i may be persuaded to drop a bit in the pot just to spite the idiots who aren't donating because they're angry over stupid shit.

[Maddy McCall]

168. This is symbolic of the growing problem at DU.

This thread, the subject line of which was "Fuck off Hillary Clinton," was locked because it "became a flamefest."

http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=show_mesg&forum=132&topic_id=5936591&mesg_id=5938229

Shouldn't it have been locked for the original message, not for what happened in the thread afterwards? The OP was flamebait. The author should be held responsible for casting out the flamebait.

On the other side of the coin, Hillary supporters start threads, which are flamed by Obama supporters, and those threads which often present valid topics are locked because they "became flamefests." Why not deal with the disruptors who enter threads with the sole intent of turning them into flamewars instead of punishing the people who start threads worthy of discussion?

There are some legitimate complaints and pleas for intervention that have been made to the admins, but I feel that the admins are choosing not to deal with the complaints. I know you think that you intervened too much in 2004 with the harsh rules you established....so I guess your response for 2008 is just not to respond at all. There could have been a happy medium put in place...and that happy medium would be to ban the worst offenders.

It's growing increasingly hard to be a Clinton supporter here...you posted once that the number of alerts you receive plays a role in whether or not a thread is locked. Well, just from perusing this forum, it should be evident that of course you'll receive ten times as many alerts from Obama supporters as from Hillary supporters. Some people have been labeled disruptors who aren't. And some people who are obviously disruptors are allowed to continue to spam the forum with disgusting flamebait.

I know my opinion doesn't mean beans...so I don't expect a response. But if you're wondering why things are going as they are, maybe at least consider a little of what I've said.

[MonkeyFunk]

174. Yep

It's ridiculous that that wasn't locked as flamebait, but instead for "becoming a flamefest". Look at the locked threads on the first 10 pages or so. Obvious, hate-filled OPs by the usual suspects - why are they still here? Some posters NEVER start a thread that isn't intended to inflame, incite, divide.

It's one thing to get heated occasionally, but when 100% of your contribution to the discussions here is disruptive, something should be done.

[Cameron27]

233. Very well said...

That seems to be a common strategy now, if you don't like a Clinton thread, easy fix; just start a flame-war and get it lock it up.

And of course: "This thread, the subject line of which was "Fuck off Hillary Clinton," was locked because it "became a flamefest."

Absurd. It didn't become anything, the OP's post was an outrageous flamebait, & that's the reason it should have been locked. IMO.

[ronnykmarshall]

381. Another thing that cemented my wallet shut ...

When pro-Hillary threads or threads about donating to her are posted ...... the flood gates are opened. All the Hillary bashers come flying out and start throw rocks. But when a "I just donated to Obama" or a "Can I hear a 'yes we can'" or "GOBAMA" thread get started .... nothing.

Even my thread last summer when I was talking about going to see Hillary got shit on right and left. Most of it came from one vile person, but still this shit is allowed?

And Obama supporters are screeching about how "a certain fraction" refused to donate to DU this quarter? Get fucking real. Many of those complaining about this lack of support from Hillary supporters are the main reason many of us are fucking fed up with the bullshit.

[Catherina]

253. Valid topics worthy of discussion like these?

"The Haloed One"
Topic started by Maddy McCall on Feb-28-08 07:45 PM (135 replies)
Last modified by Maddy McCall on Mar-02-08 08:43 PM

If you support Obama, you are part of the problem
Topic started by Maddy McCall on Mar-29-08 08:39 PM (172 replies)
Last modified by Bluebear on Mar-29-08 11:41 PM
Locked by CabalPowered

New movement: IF IT'S BROWN, FLUSH IT DOWN!
Topic started by Maddy McCall on Mar-24-08 11:19 PM (92 replies)
Last modified by Maddy McCall on Mar-25-08 06:09 AM
Locked by Skinner

Why didn't Obama release his passport records? What's he hiding?!
Topic started by Maddy McCall on Mar-20-08 09:01 PM (73 replies)
Last modified by MassDemm on Mar-21-08 06:17 PM

You people are fucking sick.
Topic started by Maddy McCall on Mar-10-08 12:37 PM (88 replies)
Last modified by Harvey Korman on Mar-10-08 12:54 PM

Another youtuber accusing Obama of an affair.
Topic started by Maddy McCall on Mar-08-08 11:40 AM (55 replies)
Locked by wakemeupwhenitsover

Have you been Obamboozled?
Topic started by Maddy McCall on Apr-18-08 01:10 AM (124 replies)
Last modified by BlueStater on Apr-20-08 07:54 PM

My personal favorite is New movement: IF IT'S BROWN, FLUSH IT DOWN!. That one took particular maturity. I can't imagine why any of those threads were locked.

[Tarheel_Dem]

376. Again....CRICKETS...

I told you, their selective outrage is almost laughable.

[bkcc]

382. Kudos.

Thanks for tracking these down and calling out some of the people crying foul.
You have much more patience than I do.

[redqueen]

395. Thank you.

Jesus Christ on a crutch but this shit is beyond old.

[cornermouse]

442. I would add this one as well.

It insults an entire state and serves no purpose other than alienating anyone from West Virginia who happens to look in. It doesn't give a good representation of DU.

http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=show_mesg&forum=132&topic_id=5958401&mesg_id=5958401

[sfam]

169. I donated because I thought I'd get a free subscription to Wired Magazine...

Yes, I am a latte drinkin, hybrid drivin, lazy white guy...

[LoZoccolo]

176. Can I offer one suggestion that is candidate-neutral? "Ask the Administrators" needs to return.

You may have heard me say this before, but I really think you need to reinstate the "Ask the Administrators" board. It may be a hassle, and it may open the door for crazy whining and provide a stage for grandstanding, but I think that some people are not as enthusiastic about giving when there is an official policy of "we do not have to give an answer for why we do what we do". I think that some people will feel more a part of things if the administrators are willing to be more accountable for their decisions, or even if the users can get more of a sense of why decisions were made.

Also please note that I am a regular subscriber so I am not withholding my donation due to this policy; I simply think that people will be more willing to participate in supporting the site if there is more of a dialog.

[Renew Deal]

185. ATA was a blast.

But probably not for Skinner. ;)

[eppur_se_muova]

178. We should at least get little ribbons to hand out ...

that say "I'm being ignored". Give one to each troll/provacoteur/other creature on your ignore list! That would put the fractiousness of GD:PPPFFFBLBLBLBP (I love that the smiley comes out that way) to good use!

(Donating as soon as I can transfer some dough from 1st checking acct to 2nd, which has a Visa debit card -- my FREE prepaid VISA, in effect.)

[bigwillq]

182. I donate in Feb.

I like the hearts fundraiser. I know I should donate more, and not just once a year but sometimes that's all I could afford.

[Dinger]

186. Just Wondering Here . . .

Is this a "weeder" thread?

[SaveAmerica]

188. Are your hits to the site the same as during past drives? Do you think many are burnt out and not

hanging around as much?

How often do you have to donate per year to get your star and is there a way to know when your star will disappear?

On a non-related subject, you responded so someone's thread a while back in GD-P and you might have misunderstood what he meant and answered more strongly than I thought was necessary or I misunderstood the entire thing, but you came back later and apologized and I think it was a very nice thing you did. You must feel like your website is being torn asunder sometimes.

[incapsulated]

189. You reap what you sow

You let this place become a sewer worse the FR and expect me to donate?

Forget it.

[bpeale]

191. thanks for the offer Skinner, but you're simply not worth hitting, so no thanks

you'll have to do better than that.

[symbolman]

192. Sorry, the economy has pregressively put the squeeze on us..

to the point where I was lucky enough to have a kind soul donate a star to me, I was mortally embarrassed a few weeks ago when a few DUrs called me a "Leech" and a "Freeloader".. Its great to support this place and I've done what I can to promote it in the media when I can..

However, if I was a Mod those posters would be gone.. :)

We are broke enough that we are selling everything, which may even include our website Takebackthemedia.com - and our home..

When we do, we'll be Paying it Forward, donating large to the DU as a thank you for having Been an Oasis in the killer Hurricane of the Bush Cheney movement, and for having spun off so many creative ventures, writers, animators, bloggers, etc..

Just can't swing it now, much apologies..

[awoke_in_2003]

332. Sorry to hear

of the financial woes. This economy is truly sucking. Good luck to you, and anyone who called you a leach is nothing but a shithead.

[xxqqqzme]

194. Come on, Duers

sign up for the monthly donation. It is simple & nearly painless. This site is easily worth $5/mo to you, isn't it? How about $10/mo?

[jillan]

195. I vote with my money.

I only spend it on things or at places I believe in.

Not this time, mods....

[Tarheel_Dem]

377. Did you donate to Hillary? nt

[Dinger]

197. Kickin' For The P.M. Crowd (nt)

[GoneOffShore]

198. You got a donation from me

And not cause I want to punch you..

Here's suggestion -

If it's possible - when you get halfway change the picture to McBush and Chimpy.

[elehhhhna]

203. you need a "Punch the Troll" fundraiser.

[Leopolds Ghost]

204. I may give... but three trees just fell on my house. n/t

[tnlefty]

205. I don't really want to punch the admins, I'd much rather see

the three at the bottom of your post get punched. Snail mail this time, and it may be lacking as I'm trying to prepare for college tuition in a few months.:scared:

[goldcanyonaz]

206. skinner, do you ever check your inbox?

[gaspee]

207. Between the price of gas and the fact

that this has become Obama Underground, I can't afford to donate and I don't want to.

I just had to roll change to put gas in my 10 YO 4 cylinder pickup truck.

I've been called a racist and a troll for not supporting Obama. And I've been called that by people with very few posts.

So I can't afford it and even if I could, I wouldn't.

I've donated twice in the past.

I can't believe I'm the only one in these circumstances.

[bpeale]

240. no gaspee, you are not the only one

i will not give either to obama underground. when it becomes democratic again, call me. never in my life have i been ridiculed & called names by other supposed democrats if i didn't support their candidate (i.e. obama). any money i have to donate will go to John Edwards since he is the only one who has earned my vote. i have donated many times in the past, but i won't be donating again until true democracy is restored.

[Brundle_Fly]

208. I donated

and after my wife and I's financial turmoil of the last few years, it felt really good to do so.

[tigereye]

209. you deserve credit for allowing all to speak their minds with as much

fairness as you can muster.

For that you guys deserve a big :thumbsup:

Most folks would not be as brave as you have been with the mud-wrestling that goes on in a few forums.

[MrRobotsHolyOrders]

212. Ban anyone who disagrees with me, in any way, and then I'll contribute

If I have to deal with one more hateful Chris Dodd supporter, I'm totally going to keep posting here, but complain much more stridently.

[sniffa]

214. Oh that's IT! IT'S ON

Dodd Squad, SWARM! SWARM!

[MrRobotsHolyOrders]

219. Remember the DoddPod?

He never once used any of my suggestions for his playlist. If Chris Dodd doesn't want the vote of people who snort adderall and listen to speed metal, then frankly, fuck him and his hateful supporters, I'll vote for McCain.

[sniffa]

222. His hair is bigger than you puny liberal

In fact, even his funny eyebrows are bigger than you. :eyes:

[MrRobotsHolyOrders]

228. True story.

If Barack to the Future had gotten taken out on Super Tuesday, I intended to vote for Heavy D in protest in the Washington caucus that Saturday.

It was between Dodd and Kucinich, and I protest voted for Kucinich last time. I'll protest vote for Kucinich again in 2016, and Robo-Kucinich in 2150.

[JVS]

365. Heavy D! Alright!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lhhZmd5aGkU

[JVS]

232. aaaaahhhhhhrrr. Just point me at the person whose head I should smash!

[Zero Division]

266. +1

:thumbsup:

Where's the super secret web forum to complain about all those horrible Dodd supporters on DU?

:rofl:

[awoke_in_2003]

337. Typical response

from a Doddobot :)

[Little Star]

213. "Let It Sink"

How would you like it if that strategy was used to silence you.

sniff sniff

sorry Skinner, but we have really been abused around here.

"the gas prices" are preventing me from making a donation at this time.

[Jamastiene]

220. There certainly has been a lot of hot air around here.

Kind of hard to see through the fumes of hatred anyhow. :shrug:

[shaniqua6392]

223. Anyone who even says anything nice about Clinton

is going to have use their extra money for therapy after the ravaging that they get here. I don't even support either of the candidates in particular, but have found that it does not pay to say anything nice about Clinton. Ouch. I know that is not the fault of the mods. But it sure has been unpleasant and kind of disheartening.

[dogday]

216. Check your PMs

I sent you an idea on how to spice up this quarter's contributions....

[Faygo Kid]

217. I always pictured you guys as continental sophisticates - greying temples, lantern jaws . . .

Talk about misguided. I expect Cary Grant, George Clooney and Paul Newman, and I instead I get:

Knuckleheads.



All the more reason to donate. Continental sophisticates don't need the money as much as you guys most assuredly do.

[WillYourVoteBCounted]

226. I've been scrimping to donate to Obama - maybe an endorsement might help?

he hee DU endorse Obama, biggest fund raiser ever?

[T Monk]

227. vagabond pockets very very regretfully but thanks for du

[tblue37]

229. Thanks for the push. I just donated. n/t

[LaurenG]

236. I really didn't want to punch any of you especially that kind veg-head Elad

or sweet Earl G and how are we supposed to punch a man with such an adorable child. :7

[dailykoff]

237. Whatever you guys are doing don't stop. DU is irresistible.

Very funny promotion! K/R

[Plucketeer]

239. Rhyme tyme

I love DU so I give to you.

[Harry Monroe]

242. Skinner, the boxing glove thing gets a bit old

How 'bout we just kick you guys in the balls instead??

BTW, just donated. Thanks for all you guys do!!

[Zomby Woof]

244. Donation gimmicks aside

I'll donate because:

1. This is the second primary season DU has endured, and it will need repairs for the dings, scratches, dents, cracks, holes, blood spatters, and debris clean-up from all the flying objects (almost) everyone has hurled at each other.

2. The price of new avatars has gone up to $110 a pixel. The tax "rebate" just isn't going to cut it.

3. My gold star needs new batteries.

4. I'm almost due for my 45,000 post tune-up, and my warranty may expire if I don't.

[Adelante]

245. God, Skinner, you should have sent out GrovelBot

What a thread this turned out to be.

[Skinner]

246. It certainly makes for interesting reading.

But it's not exactly surprising. Like I said, we knew before this even started that it might be our worst fund drive ever.

[sniffa]

254. I think you'll wind up doing better than your prediction on this thread

I know there's a bloc who won't donate (and hey, there on this thread!) but there's at least a good amount of DUers at least claiming to donate more in their absence. I'll do my part, thought it's going to be a pittance in comparison to some.

We'll try to even it out. http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=show_mesg&forum=388&topic_id=5089&mesg_id=5089

From a former, barely donating DUer.

[myrna minx]

259. If only you could get Comic Book Store Guy to sport a t-shirt saying that.

Worst Fund Drive Ever

I can make a contribution of Friday. :D

[Hoof Hearted]

264. Then we must assume you knew why as well. How dissapointing.

[LowerManhattanite]

399. Done, sir.

And I know you guys have a tough job. You do what you can-for I guess what could only be called “both sides”.

It is kind of sad to see folks kicking dirt in your face, yet in the next breath will hit “alert” for a mod to assuage their hurt feelings.

“I hate you!”/“Listen to me!” all in one move.

Nothing is exactly as one would want it all the time—but in the end, it is ours.

Thank you for providing this forum.

Best,
LowerManhattanite

[saltpoint]

247. If you take you admins' images off the punch-target spot and replace

them with people who deserve to be punched -- Ann Coulter, Brit Hume, Alberto Gonzales, the government of Burma, Pat Buchanan, John Boehner, Mean Jean Schmidt, and so forth...

--then I think you'd be bringing in more donations.

[swishyfeet]

248. The elitists over at NPR have been panhandling this week too...

But of course they don't allow punching. WTF!?!?

(oh wait, they give tax deductions)

[ShaneGR]

250. Kill GDP.... put it out of its misery...

It has basically become a haven for rightwingers and trolls to stir up trouble.

[greguganus]

251. DU fundraising is dead to Clinton supporters now. n/t

[Samantha]

252. I PRINTED OFF THE DONATE BY MAIL FORM IMMEDIATELY

when I saw your email this evening. I will mail my check tomorrow or Wednesday morning at the latest. I am sorry it cannot be more.

My first thought when reading your email was that the Administration here has done a wonderful job under extremely adverse circumstances this election cycle. I truly, sincerely mean that. Thank you and all the moderators for your diligence.

Sam

PS I am NOT a sycophant.:)

[bjobotts]

255. What can U expect with soaring food and gas prices. Must budget U in.

unless love counts too

[GOPBasher]

258. I can't donate because of deep financial trouble. I certainly will if/when I get

back on my feet. Just a note to let y'all know that my reason for not donating has nothing to do with anger towards anyone.

[Not Sure]

260. I don't want to punch you guys

Actually, Skinner, I am amazed at the level of patience you have demonstrated with your post about the long primary that's still going on. I don't have a dog in this hunt - well, just the yellow dog I'm voting for in November - and even I'm irritated with the hate frothing up here lately.

But, I still needed to donate. It's not much, but I'll eat ramen a couple more days and pay for my little nugget of DU.

[Betsy Ross]

261. Happy to be an early donor.

No matter how much I yell at the TV/radio/internetz, I don't what to punch anyone.

Thanks Admins.

Pray for peace.

[Tribetime]

263. Hope it gets better for you Skinner

I enjoy this site very much.

[SlingBlade]

265. It's a reflection of the economy

Cause so far, This is the worst economic conditions that
I personally have ever had to deal with

And its far from over, Stock up people,
Ah storm's a brew'in

[CaptJasHook]

268. 35 more of my hard earned dollars to y'all. Peace

[BlueJac]

269. I gave the most I could afford

[scarletwoman]

270. Well, if you would've taken MY suggestion...

Yes, this is definitely DU's "worst fund drive ever"

sw

[Triana]

271. I am NOT sending ya'll any money....

...till FRIDAY!

;)

[IndependentDem]

272. just gave you some of my stimulus check. n/t

[stlsaxman]

273. dudes- i'm broke right now but weekend after this next one you got some cash coming you'ses way!

i don't want to punch any faces, neither!

i love DU (regardless)

always have, always will.

[LaStrega]

274. I donate monthly ...

But I tossed ya a bump just 'cause ... long divisive primary and all ... I greatly appreciate DU and the community I've come to know thusly.

Cheers! :toast:

(on edit: k&r ... give if ya can fellow DU peeps)

[akbacchus_BC]

278. I didn't want to punch the Admins, but I had to donate, so I did, no

punches to you Skinner, just a big hug to you, the other Admins and the Moderators who are doing a splendid service here. A huge THANK YOU.

K&R -- Please donate fellow DUers to keep this site alive.

[1awake]

279. donated n/t

[barbtries]

280. believe it or not

i'm kinda hoping you don't fade away before thursday, because that's when i get paid. right now, i'm broke. not madatcha, not tapped by the primaries, just plain broke.

[understandinglife]

281. Donated once, already, happy to do so again and again ....

Peace,
Bob

[dorktv]

282. My job makes it impossible for me to donate.

I can give $250 a year and I gave it all to a local candidate.

I am sorry. :cry:

[akbacchus_BC]

283. Come on fellow DUers, please donate, even if it is $5.00. We have

got to keep this site up and running. Look how many of us are finding a sanctuary on here to discuss important issues. This is a historic time in US politics, an AA and a woman running for the nomination. You should be so proud! I am proud too. Either Senator will make a great President as opposed to the same old same old BS, McCain!

K&R, please donate. I just donated again.

[DeepModem Mom]

285. K&R in honor of Skinner's recent message of unity.

I'm donating, and would encourage others to do so. The admins allow more abuse and downright cruelty in GDP than I would like, but when Skinner speaks, I think he speaks with fairness and good sense -- and when he makes a decision, the same.

Guys: I'm using the cut-and-paste option --

[akbacchus_BC]

286. You are such a wonderful person, ditto to your sentiments. I truly

believe that the Admins and the Moderators are doing a splendid job on this site. The Mods are volunteers and they cannot catch all the negative posts, kudos to them. I love it here.

[jeff30997]

287. I'm truly sorry but...

I'm on welfare because of health problems.For me 5$= 2 meals.Sorry again.I love this place.-Jeff

[Lisa0825]

435. Be watching for a star.....

:pals:

[jeff30997]

437. OMG!

Thank you so much Lisa! You're the best.:pals:

[Lisa0825]

438. My pleasure!

I emailed Skinner to give it to you. If you don't have it by tomorrow, I will email again. Enjoy! :pals:

[cosmic _mind]

288. I DONATED

even though some at DU have had great fun ridiculing my candidate, Lee Mercer Jr.! This behavior is shameful and should not be allowed! He will prove America is America, He will prove the United States Army Military Intelligence Academy Hot-wire Hookup is an important U.S. Government Entity, and won't you be ashamed of yourselves then!

[quantass]

289. I thought "Skinner" was some kind of Mascot like an Aunt Jemimah...so it's a real thingy?

learn something new each day :shrug:

[MirrorAshes]

290. Just donated... to punch ALL of us in the face

so maybe we can snap out of this insanity and get back to being democrats.

[akbacchus_BC]

292. Ditto to that, let's come together as Democrats. n/t

[akbacchus_BC]

293. Skinner, after you have reached the half-way mark, please put up

Bush and McCain faces. I will donate again. Gotta kick Bush's third term to the curb!

[FloridaJudy]

294. I donated

Now, when can I expect my pony?

[JDPriestly]

296. I gave, but not because I wanted to punch the admins.

I just usually donate to DU this time of year. Thank you admins for all you do and for your sense of humor. You are great!

[Gore1FL]

298. over 1/3 of the way to goal on Tues morning.

What is the normal rate?

[lostnfound]

299. As a still-happy monthly subscriber, I am glad I have no dilemma.

The admins deserve a big kiss or a raise. Thanks for continuing to keep DU a great place to visit.

[MagickMuffin]

302. Like a lot of posters in this thread I don't have the funds to donate

Wish I could but being unemployed sucks. Perhaps sometime in the foreseeable future things will start to turn around.

Still trying to figure out how I'll pay for my trip to Austin in June for the Texas State Convention.

And I would NEVER want to punch the Admins out. OUCH.

I think you guys will do okay, your donor drives seems to always start out slow. It should pick up towards the end of the week.

[Uben]

307. Talk about bad decisions!

It was the last fund drive that pissed me off. remember? They pitted Obama supporters against Clinton supporters. (the race)

I donated, I always do, but I thought that was in very poor judgement. There was enough shit going on here without the admins exacerbating the situation. I let Skinner know how I felt about it. I'm not interested in hitting anyone in the face, and I think you could have come up with a much better theme than this. Creatively disfunctional?

Maybe instead of punching you guys in the face, you should show a hand shoving a fistful of money up your ass at the end! Now, there's one I could feed! (disfunctional creativity at it's best!)

Ha ha! Look, I know you guys have a tough job (mods, too). I have been the admin of a political site for about as long as DU has been around, so I know the pitfalls. The difference is, my site is free, and only has a couple of hundred members, but they have been with me for about 8 yrs now. Although we have both republicans and dems there, I insist they keep a civil discourse or they are gone. No grace period, no exceptions. That is one reason I have never applied to be a mod here. I think everyone deserves respect, and when a poster violates the rules, they should be dealt with firmly and quickly. It doesn't take long for folks to realize that it is, "Play by the rules, or don't play!" Of course, I don't have my own domain name to pay for, and I don't get to take those lavish holiday trips to San Tropez and sit on the beach with nekkid women serving me drinks with umbrellas in them either!

[liberal N proud]

310. I would if I could

This place is my on-line safe house. I come here to see what really is happening in the world.
Right now, I can't my wife could lose her job any day now and we are in super penny pinching mode already trying to pay for one in college, one in high school and the rising prices of everything else.

It seems like these things always hit when I am not prepared then when there isn't a fund drive, one never thinks about it.

If I used a credit card right now, my wife would go through the roof.

[Clintonista2]

311. That's what happens when

You let rampant no-star Obama supporters who have 5000 posts in 1 month run long-time DUers away. Hopefully this fundraiser will act as a wake-up call for the admins.

[Seabiscuit]

364. BINGO! Many have left, and I've come close to being one of them many times.

People are voting with their pocketbooks. No doubt many are fed up with the bias displayed on the part of the admins/mods, and the fact that this forum in particular has been allowed to deteriorate into a mud-slinging contest, with 90% of the mud coming from one direction only. Very few of those 90% donate. They're just here to disrupt.

[Jamastiene]

314. You reckon? n/t

[leftrightwingnut]

315. I already donated and will donate again if I get to choose who to punch!

Give me more choices (suggestions in no particular order):

• the admins
  
• the evil bunch (in the paste-on pick)
  
• barack obama
  
• hillary clinton
  
• operationmindcrime*
  
• ignore list**
  

What a dilemma! Take it out on the admins, the evil ones or the candidate that I hate.

Set it up like the fun run. The winner (loser) gets punched!

* not picking on you omc, but you did come to mind as a good punchee candidate for some reason... :-) I'm sure other DUers would make good candidates as well.
** mine is empty. Your mileage may vary.

[awoke_in_2003]

316. Would love to donate

this cycle, but the wife just went back to work after being off for 3 months due to illness, gas is $4.00 a gallon, and I barely have 2 nickles to rub together. Will have to catch up on the next one (unless the economy just goes straight to hell before that). For those angry with the admins, grow up.

[The Doctor.]

320. You mean if I donate...

I don't get to drive to DC and punch anyone in the face?

Or if I don't donate, I can still drive to DC and punch someone?

Or do I donate, and just go and punch someone in the face anyway?


SO confusing!

[alteredstate]

321. I'm happy to donate, but

I don't want to punch ya, Skinner!

[seabeyond]

322. won't feel bad if you donate,.. bah hahaha. that is funny. glad you cleared that up

for me....

[MethuenProgressive]

330. When I was recently suspended I emailed you asking for your help.

This is not an appeal for reinstatement. I've been suspended:
"Continues to engage in rule-breaking and anti-social behavior despite a warning from the moderators and a previous 7-day suspension."
Is there a way I can see the posts of mine that are "rule-breaking and anti-social behavior" so that I may learn from them? When I received that last suspension, I asked the same question, with no response. And for what its worth, I did not receive a warning before this suspension, which I'm certain you can confirm.
I try to play by the rules, even when under constant attack by members who disagree with me. You probably can see that I alert when attacked, and very seldom respond. Members I've alerted on for attacking me have had scores of posts removed, and they are still active members. I must be doing something wrong, and would like to know what.
If I could see examples of what I've done wrong I would really appreciate it.
thanks,
MethuenProgressive

1st suspension: I asked you for help, I received no help.
2nd suspension: I asked you for help, I received no help.
Logged on today, top of the Greatest: You asking for my help.
I just donated to Hillary Clinton. Thanks for the help deciding where my help should go.

[Liberal_Stalwart71]

331. Skinner...

Send me the mailing address!!

[ElsewheresDaughter]

346. welcome back you....i missed you!

:toast:

[MethuenProgressive]

351. Thank you!

I appreciate being appreciated! :toast:

[rodeodance]

348. Feedback is essential.

[MethuenProgressive]

352. I think so too, rodeodance.

And unless I'm informed of what I did wrong on DU, I run the risk of doing it again.

(At least I know what I did to get on the "targetted for banning list" over on the HillHate website.
They posted there that it was because I was suspected of alerting on their DU posts.)

[Hawkeye-X]

355. What HillHate website?

:shrug:

[rodeodance]

362. oh, you of all people asking!!

[Jamastiene]

405. We need some Raid around here.

Gnats like you are so annoying. Not to mention that you carry diseases.

[Hawkeye-X]

417. It's a honest question - you mention HillHate website?

I have nver seen one.

[rodeodance]

360. Rather ironic isn't it.--they would post feed back there but you get none here.

[Hawkeye-X]

354. You donated to a blackhole.

Great! Good for you! :applause:

[LowerManhattanite]

412. Um...it would seem that a mod call-out like this wouldn't exactly help...

...your situation?

[MethuenProgressive]

423. I can imagine that the o-mail that went out to alert-bomb that post...

told them to alert it as a "mod call out" - but our moderators are lots smarter than the o-mailers Hope they are.
The mods have been great imo, but when suspended, you can't PM a mod anymore.

[Amonester]

333. If I could donate more than the small amount I just did, I would.

Started a low-paying job last week 'cuz I can't find any in IT (which "used to be" the field I graduated in...) :mad:
Gotta survive one way or another, and it's tough.
+Wishing an end to the GOP's war-criminal junta Jan. '09

+J'AIME DU :loveya:

p.s.: I never punch anyone (or anything, 'xcept bugs 'n stuff)! :hide:

[Bentcorner]

335. That's what happens with you alienate half your members.

[carolinayellowdog]

338. I donated steadily for years and might again, but

the way certain Clinton supporters were allowed to be personally abusive to everyone else, with what looked very much like preferential treatment from the mods, made me an ex-donor. Now that their candidate has lost, they are bailing out and blaming DU. You may never get them back. But I'll donate again as soon as this is over and the endless eruptions of stereotyping and scapegoating from (a handful of enraged, relentless, and preferentially treated) Clinton supporters against (all) Obama supporters has ended. Not until.

[MissWaverly]

341. I donated but here's my dumb idea

After all donations are counted then everyone who voted in this fund drive should get a shamrock (hey I am Irish), the monthly
donors get a shamrock with a monthly donor next to them, maybe they could get a leprechaun as well and starting from now,
anyone who donates get a shamrock for every fund drive in 08, so I could have 3 by the end of the year. Starting in January
it's a new symbol like a blue donkey.

Something like the 700 club with shamrocks.

:-)

[madokie]

342. This place is awesome in so many ways

Sometime I wait until right after the drive to donate but this time for some reason it was different. I think it was because I could feel you guy's pain and could smell the sweat from all the work it takes to keep this place rocking on. You guys keep up the good work, while trolls and disrupters be damned

[lonestarnot]

344. Waiting for payday.

:P

[ElsewheresDaughter]

345. everybody here has given all their money to obama

[WillyToad]

350. While driving half of the DU away from the board

[ColesCountyDem]

347. Just cash-strapped, atm.

With massive heating bills from the past 5 months, I'm frankly cash-strapped. I'd donate in a heartbeat, if I had any extra cash. Is it possible to donate at times other than during a fund drive?

:hi:

[Hawkeye-X]

358. Of course.

http://www.democraticunderground.com/donate.html

You can donate anytime!

[ColesCountyDem]

411. Thanks for the info!

:hi:

[kentuck]

356. Shhh...

Put McCain's picture up there and watch it get better. :-)

[Bluenorthwest]

359. Not this week

I'm broke and getting more so. I read many snarky postings from people who claim to be rolling in dough, they should put up or shut up. Too much vitriol and too many rule books here to motivate me to donate in such difficult times. To me the two remaining candidates are similar, compromised candidates. The lack of real difference between them has lead to this personal attack mode this cycle. The two vote exactly alike. So we hear about her laugh or Rev Wright. To avoid mentioning that they both voted for the Patriot Act, and that sort of thing.

I think money is somethig we get for working. I see few pieces of writing by the admins here, and I see lots of set apart Journals that get the postitioning and such to seem official. Some nasty crap. Amature, compliment seeking from self satisfied hacks. And just way too much homophobia, from the blatant McClurkinites to the subtle lexicon of some of our DUers. I don't feel that comfortable here with some of the 'star' posters being what I would call bigoted. They think they are not, but they are.

I will donate when I can in the future, but this place is now way down the line for me. Reading about Vince Foster too often and not enough about John McCain or GW Bush. Too much Rev Wright and not enough Dick Cheney. Anyone who has time to bash fellow Democrats is not paying attention to the Republicans.

But a hard job and the admins do better than I could. Sorry that the Bush economy is so sucky.

[Brazenly Liberal]

363. May I suggest something?

Again today, I checked off "no sticker" on my donation - not because I don't want to have the coolest pick-em-up truck in the county, but because I want every cent of the donation to go to DU.

Have you considered adding the option of sending the sticker via email as a pdf? It would save you guys printing and mailing costs AND give you the option of doing different, creative, spur-of-the-moment things with it without a setup cost. You could even have promotional events where members design stickers, etc. The "sticker" printed out on copy paper is better for the environment because it's more degradable and is taped to the bottom of the back window rather than glued on the bumper. I know a number of people who display their bumper stickers this way anyway and it works out pretty nicely.

[janet118]

373. My first donation

Ah. That felt good. ;-)

[Renew Deal]

374. Maybe I'm wrong, but the fund drive looks like it's going swell.

Didn't it start Sunday? 416 donations in 3 days looks on par.

[MethuenProgressive]

385. 425 ten dollar bills is a lot of money, but...

...have you seen the price of arugula at the Whole Foods store?

[Renew Deal]

389. One of those 10's is a 20.

I love Whole Foods, though I never buy arugula.

[MethuenProgressive]

406. I hope you split it up, so the donations counter goes up faster.

I'm on a strict budget, so when I do send in it's just been $10. I did splurge and buy some stars back in February.
Good luck to your candidate.

[Renew Deal]

408. Thanks?

When did you become so conciliatory? In theory, it will be our candidate soon.

[OneSelf]

378. Happy to make my first donation.

Gobama!

:toast:

[Dukkha]

379. not gonna happen

with all the serious real problems with the disasters the world right now, on top of the massive inflation and recession, I think charitable contributions would be better used than on a forum full of the petty squabbling privileged class. Maybe it's all the censorship and deletions here lately that has turned me off but I so couldn't care less about an election primary anymore.

[Ian_rd]

380. It's the economy. I'm less than broke each month

But I'll take a look at my checking account and see what I can do. It's not your fault, Admins, it's Chimpy's.

[mountainvue]

383. Dude, I'm broke. n/t

[sofa king]

386. I didn't know our moderators were Bruce Vilanch, Che Guevara, and the "Can you hear me now?" guy.

Hey, if that made you laugh, toss an extra five bucks in the coffers, won't you? I don't even have a credit card that works online anymore.

[QC]

387. You let a bunch of new posters, few of whom contribute anything to the forum,

monetary or otherwise, turn this place into a bad remake of Lord of the Flies and drive off many longtime members who have supported DU for years.

That was terrible for the quality of DU, of course, but it also seems to have been a very bad business decision.

[LowerManhattanite]

397. Don't want to punch any admins...

..as I know their job is tough—especially on weekends.

Sending my usual.

Can't help but notice “Organized Boycott II: The Reckoning” manifesting itself. Ah, well... :(

My issue? There's a lot I see here that I DON'T agree with. Some of it I despise. But in the end, I feel it's only fair to contribute a little something to a private forum where I am allowed the privilege to post and share my opinion. I expect people to disagree as that is what people do.

But I am being granted the privilege to spout, and rebut—and to laugh and share. Even when I read things that piss me off.

You have my support, Skinner—Earl and Elad, too.

[BlackVelvet04]

400. ....................

"For those of you who are angry at the Admins and want to punish us, read this: You should donate to DU, because then you get to punch the admins in the face. We will be deeply humiliated by this public face-punching, and we will be very sad if this fund drive reaches its goal of 1000 donations."

Do you have any idea how amazingly insulting that is?

[SaveOurDemocracy]

425. We weren't supposed to notice?

Oops, almost forgot ... HRC supporter = underedumacated

[MaineDem]

401. I really love you guys!

I hate to punch you in the face, even virtually, but it's all for the good cause.

Good luck.

[Lone_Star_Dem]

410. Is this worse than in 2004?

I missed that one and have been afraid to ask if they compare recently. I heard 2004 was a freaking madhouse around here though.

To be honest I'm tight but I will be donating. I take a great deal from DU, it's only fair that I contribute something in return.

Don't read too much into the cruddy fund drive. Once the primary is over and we're all pretty much back on the same side things will settle down again.

I was thinking perhaps you should have had Hillary and Obama racing to the finish line on the progress bar. Then you could have had the winner doing a victory jig or some such thing. It might have helped get people motivated. :shrug:

[Skidmore]

416. I thought Grovelbot was your campaign manager! Where is he?

[backscatter712]

420. Tossed ya a few bucks...

and a friendly, but painful thump on the arm... :evilgrin:

[Phillycat]

427. I'll give you one guess why:

Because THIS is on the greatest page, no lock:

http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=show_mesg&forum=132&topic_id=5951475&mesg_id=5951475

[BlackVelvet04]

428. Oh, good Lord.....

I can't believe this SHIT.

[kiva]

431. OK, change my message below to read "NO FUCKING WAY" nt

[kiva]

429. Nope, not this time.

I joined and contributed to Democratic Underground, not Obama Underground. In the three months since I donated, I've seen posts denying that Hillary Clinton is a democrat, posts accusing her supporters of being racists, uneducated, and worse. I didn't join a site that supported any one candidate, I joined a site that supported Democratic candidates--plural.

Yesterday I went to a barbecue and was talking to four other DU members; two said they hadn't been here for a couple of months, one said about a month, because of the anti-HRC bunch. At least two of these people were donors (don't know about the other two). This could have been prevented by shutting down the handful (in the beginning) of hatemongers; but they were allowed to continue, and they bred. So, let them pony up the money to clean up the toxic waste--I'll wait and see if it ever becomes habitable before I contribute again.

[lumberjack_jeff]

432. How much do I hate thee?

Let me count the ways.

Uh... $15 worth, I guess.

Take that, turkeys.

I'll be laughing all the way to the bank... where I'll withdraw money to give to, um, you.

... hey, wait a minute...

Dang, I knew I shoulda coughed up the cash for that 2nd year of college. Oh well, the damage is done.

;)

[Terran]

433. Just donated

And it's been a while since I felt I could afford to do so...so I'm very happy to have done it. I used to be a regular contributor but have been a bad money situation the past several months. Glad to show my support for DU--member since August 2001!

[Bjornsdotter]

434. I donated and received this lovely thank-you!

Dear Bjornsdotter,

Thank you for your generous contribution. We are at a critical
stage in the campaign, and our online supporters like you are
making the difference. The more people we reach, the more resources
we will have to help Hillary win. Send an email to your friends and
family asking them to support our campaign by making a contribution
at http://www.hillaryclinton.com/joinme

If you have any questions about your contribution please contact us at
http://www.hillaryclinton.com/help/contact/


Cheers

[kikiek]

439. That is great! Love it.

[Catherina]

436. I'll send you a money order Thursday. Those are ok right? n/t

[sniffa]

440. .

:kick: